In addition to their larger Signature V.2 speakers, Paradigm also showed a bookshelf 2-way, the Model S1 at $1600/pair, and this cute UTE center channel, the Model C1, at $900 each. It's not much wider than a big laptop. I'm intrigued by the possibility of using three C1s across the front, if the speaker's horizontal off-axis response is up to the job. The physical layout, with the vertical orientation of the midrange and tweeter (the smallest center channel design I've seen using this arrangement) is a good first step in that direction. As in the other new Signature speakers, these both sport the new Paradigm pure-beryllium tweeter.

Earthquake's premier subwoofer driver is said to have a peak-to-peak excursion capability of 4". Feel the Earth move.

Yamaha's new Soavo speaker line currently has five models, the Soavo 1 floor stander and and Soavo 2 bookshelf, plus a center, surround, and subwoofer. the big Suovo 1 is priced at $1800 (each). They're classy-looking and appear to be very well built. A brief 2-channedl audition in a small demo room on the show floor (not the best listening conditions) revealed an extremely tight bass response, but a rather forward midrange and high frequency balance. Still, they are definitely worth a closer audition under better conditions.

McIntosh announced its first video processor, the VP1000 at the show (on top in the photo). It is configured to allow separate scaling, switching, and control over two separate AV zones. It also offers 4 HDMI and 6 component inputs. The new AP1000 Audio Control Center has no video switching of its own, but offers a dedicated control interface port for the VP1000. The AP1000 nevertheless offers an LCD front panel video display for control and live video. The VP is expected to sell for $10,000 and the AP1000 for the same price.